Cross-sectional study on the use of masks among occupational groups with high-risk positions for overseas import and pollution transmission / 中华劳动卫生职业病杂志

Objective: To investigate the wearing of masks and the knowledge of masks among high-risk positions for overseas import and pollution transmission. Methods: From May 14 to 17, 2022, a convenient sampling method was used to conduct an online survey among 963 workers in high-risk positions for overseas import and pollution transmission in Beijing. The behaviors of individual use and wearing masks, the distribution and supervision of the unit, the knowledge of personal mask protection and the subjective feelings of wearing masks were analyzed. The χ(2) test and logistic regression model were used to analyze the influencing factors of the correct selection of masks. Results: The majority of the workers in high-risk positions for overseas import and pollution transmission were male (86.0%, 828/963), age concentration in 18-44 years old (68.2%, 657/963), and the majority of them had college or bachelor degrees (49.4%, 476/963). 79.4%(765/963) of the workers chose the right type of masks, female, 45-59 years old and high school education or above were the risk factors for correct selection of masks (P <0.05). Workers had good behaviors such as wearing/removing masks, but only 10.5% (101/963) could correctly rank the protective effect of different masks. 98.4% (948/963) of the workers believed that their work units had provided masks to their employees, and 99.1% (954/963) and 98.2%(946/963) of them had organized training and supervision on the use of masks, respectively. 47.4%(456/963) of the workers were uncomfortable while wearing masks. Conclusion: The overall selection and use of masks among occupational groups in high-risk positions for overseas import and pollution transmission in China need to be further standardized. It is necessary to strengthen supervision and inspection on the use of masks among occupational groups, and take improvement measures to improve the comfort of wearing masks.

Progress in the function of nucleoporin 50 and its relationship with viral infection / 中华微生物学和免疫学杂志

Nucleoporin 50 (Nup50) is a component of nuclear basket in nuclear pore complex. It includes three main domains: N domain binding to importin α, F domain binding to importin β and R domain binding to Ran. The N domain has two importin α-binding segments. There are mainly two models for explaining the role of Nup50 in nuclear import: tri-stable switch and disassemble-recycle model. Nup50 not only participates in nuclear import, but also regulates genome organization and gene expression. In addition, Nup50 is involved in the process of viral infection and replication. There is some evidence that Nup50 is related to hepatitis B virus and human immunodeficiency virus 1 infections. However, there are few researches on the relationship between Nup50 and viral infection. This article summarized the progress in the function of Nup50 and its relationship with viral infection, aiming to provide new ideas for the following in-depth study.

Chlorpyrifos should be banned in agriculture and livestock production in Colombia

Chlorpyrifos (CPF) is a pesticide widely used in Colombia´s agriculture, including crops, farm animals and pets, despite it has been banned for use in the European Union and the United States. Studies demonstrate that even low blood levels of CPF -which do not inhibit blood acetylcholinesterase- can lead to child developmental and neurological disorders such as smaller head circumference and brain alterations, and psychomotor and cognitive deficits related to learning ability, attention and memory. In adults, CPF is an endocrine disruptor and breast carcinogen. High direct and indirect economic costs have been associated with CPF exposure. Not only farmers and their families -who have the highest exposures- but the general population consuming crops sprayed with CPF are also at risk. For these reasons CPF was recently banned by the European Union (2020) and the USA (2021). Pesticide regulation policies vary greatly depending on which and how scientific studies are used to assess health risks. Pesticide evaluations funded by the chemical industry should be rectified to avoid conflicts of interest. Furthermore, political alignment with the interests of the industry should not take precedence over independent scientific evidence. It is discouraging, to say the least, that until stricter health laws are passed in Colombia, CPFs and related pesticides will continue to be imported from those countries that have already banned them. Colombian scientists should raise their voice to challenge blind acceptance of profits over unintended consequences, and efforts to prevent pesticide´s abuse should be encouraged.

El clorpirifos (CPF) es un pesticida ampliamente utilizado en la agricultura de Colombia, incluidos cultivos, animales de granja y mascotas, a pesar de haber sido prohibido en la Unión Europea y Estados Unidos. Los estudios han demostrado que incluso niveles bajos de CPF en sangre -que no inhiben la acetilcolinesterasa sanguínea- pueden provocar trastornos neurológicos y del desarrollo infantil, como menor circunferencia de la cabeza y alteraciones cerebrales, y déficits psicomotores y cognitivos relacionados con la capacidad de aprendizaje, la atención y la memoria. En adultos, el CPF es un disruptor endocrino y causante de cáncer de mama. Altos costos económicos directos e indirectos se han asociado con la exposición al CPF. No solo los trabajadores agrícolas y sus familias, que están más expuestos, sino también la población en general que consume cultivos rociados con CPF también están en riesgo. Por estas razones el CPF fue prohibido recientemente por la Unión Europea (2020) y los EE. UU. (2021). Las políticas de regulación de plaguicidas varían mucho según los estudios científicos escogidos para evaluar los riesgos para la salud. Las evaluaciones de plaguicidas financiadas por la industria química deben rectificarse para evitar conflictos de interés. Además, ante la evidencia científica independiente no debería prevalecer la alineación política con los intereses de dicha industria. Es desalentador, por decir lo menos, que hasta que se aprueben leyes de salud más estrictas en Colombia se seguirán importando CPF y pesticidas relacionados desde aquellos países que ya los han prohibido. Los científicos colombianos deben alzar la voz para desafiar la aceptación ciega de ganancias por encima de las consecuencias no deseadas en salud pública, y se deben alentar los esfuerzos para prevenir el abuso de pesticidas.

Clorpirifós (CPF) é um pesticida registrado amplamente utilizado na agricultura colombiana, incluindo lavouras, animais de fazenda e animais de estimação, apesar de ter sido proibido na União Europeia e nos Estados Unidos. Estudos têm demonstrado que mesmo níveis baixos de CPF no sangue -que não inibem a acetilcolinesterase sanguínea-podem levar a distúrbios neurológicos e de desenvolvimento em crianças, como menor perímetro cefálico e alterações cerebrais, além de déficits psicomotores e cognitivos relacionados à capacidade de aprendizagem, atenção e memoria. Em adultos, o CPF é um desregulador endócrino e cancerígeno da mama. Altos custos econômicos diretos (devido ao tratamento) e indiretos (devido à perda de produtividade) têm sido associados à exposição ao CPF. Não apenas os trabalhadores agrícolas e suas famílias, que têm as maiores exposições, mas a população em geral que consome culturas pulverizadas com CPF também estão em risco. Por essas razões, o CPF foi recentemente proibido pela União Europeia (2020) e pelos EUA (2021). As políticas de regulamentação de pesticidas variam muito, dependendo de quais (e como) os estudos científicos são usados para avaliar os riscos à saúde. As avaliações de pesticidas financiadas pela indústria química devem ser retificadas para evitar conflitos de interesse. Além disso, o alinhamento político com os interesses da indústria não deve ter precedência sobre as evidências científicas independentes. É desanimador - para dizer o mínimo - que até que leis de saúde mais rígidas sejam aprovadas na Colômbia, o CPF e tóxicos relacionados continuarão a ser importados dos países que já os proibiram.

Time to initial diagnosis of imported malaria and its influencing factors in Jiangsu Province / 中国血吸虫病防治杂志

Objective To investigate the health-seeking behaviors of imported malaria cases after returning to China, and to investigate the factors affecting the time to initial diagnosis, so as to provide the scientific evidence for early identification of imported malaria cases and prevention of severe cases development and secondary transmission. Methods The individual demographic features, and the disease onset and the time to initial diagnosis of imported malaria cases in Jiangsu Province in 2019 were captured from the National Notifiable Disease Report System and the Information Management System for Parasitic Disease Control in China. The characteristics of health-seeking behaviors and epidemiological features of imported malaria cases were descriptively analyzed, and the factors affecting the time to initial diagnosis of imported malaria cases after returning to China were identified using multivariate logistic regression analysis. Results A total of 244 imported malaria cases were reported in Jiangsu Province in 2019, and the time to initial diagnosis of the cases were 1-12 days, with mean time of (1.53 ± 1.65) days, with median time of one day. The highest number of malaria cases seeking healthcare services were found on the day of developing primary symptoms (76 cases, 31.1%), followed by on the second day (68 cases, 27.9%), on the third day (46 cases, 18.9%), and 54 cases (22.1%) received initial diagnosis 3 days following presence of primary symptoms, including 3 cases with initial diagnosis at more than one week. High proportions of imported malaria cases with a delay in the time to initial diagnosis were seen in migrant workers who returned to China in January (14 cases, 5.7%) and December (13 cases, 5.3%) and those aged between 41 and 50 years (32 cases, 13.1%). Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed relative short time to initial diagnosis among imported malaria cases returning to China on March [odds ratio (OR) = 0.16, P = 0.03, 95% confidence interval (CI): (0.03, 0.85)] and those with a history of overseas malaria parasite infections [OR = 0.36, P = 0.001, 95% CI: (0.19, 0.67)]. Conclusions Timely health-seeking behaviors should be improved among imported malaria cases in Jiangsu Province, patients with a history of overseas malaria infections require faster health-seeking activities.

Is the mitochondrion a promising drug target in trypanosomatids?

The trypanosomatids Trypanosoma brucei, Trypanosoma cruzi and Leishmania spp. are etiological agents of important neglected tropical diseases, affecting millions of people worldwide, and the drugs available for these diseases present several limitations. Novel efficient and nontoxic drugs are necessary as an alternative to the current chemotherapy. The unique mitochondrion of trypanosomatids and its peculiar features turn this organelle a potential drug target. Several phenotypic studies describe the damage in the parasite mitochondrial ultrastructure, but the molecular target is unknown. Few reports demonstrated the electron transport system (ETS) as a target due to the high similarities to mammalian orthologues, hence ETS is not a good candidate for drug intervention. On the other hand, antioxidant enzymes, such as trypanothione reductase, and an alternative oxidase (AOX) seem to be interesting targets; however no high active inhibitors were developed up to now. Finally, due to the remarkable differences to mammalian machinery, together with the high biological importance for the parasite survival, the mitochondrial import system stands out as a very promising target in trypanosomatids. Archaic translocase of the outer membrane (ATOM) and translocase of the inner membrane (TIM) complexes, which mediate both protein and tRNA import, composed by specific subunits of these parasites, could be excellent candidates, deserving studies focused on the development of specific drugs.

Shenbai Jiedu Prescription Inhibits Proliferation of Colorectal Cancer Cells by Regulating PTEN/PI3K/Akt Signaling Pathway / 中国实验方剂学杂志

ObjectiveTo study the mechanism of Shenbai Jiedu prescription inhibiting the proliferation of HCT116 colorectal cancer （CRC） cells by regulating the phosphatase and tensin homolog deleted on chromosome ten （PTEN）/phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase （PI3K）/ protein kinase B （Akt） signaling pathway. MethodShenbai Jiedu prescription was extracted by water extraction and alcohol precipitation to prepare freeze-dried powder. HCT116 cells were cultured in vitro， and treated with different concentrations of Shenbai Jiedu prescription （2， 4， 8， 16 g·L-1）. The inhibitory effect of Shenbai Jiedu prescription on the proliferation of HCT116 cells was tested by methyl thiazolyl tetrazolium （MTT）. Real-time quantitative PCR was used to detect the mRNA expression levels of PTEN， PI3K， Akt， glycogen synthase kinase-3β （GSK-3β）， c-Myc， survivin and Cyclin D1. Western blot was employed to measure the protein expression levels of PTEN， phosphorylated PTEN （p-PTEN）， PI3K， Akt， phosphorylated Akt （p-Akt）， GSK-3β， phosphorylated GSK-3β （p-GSK-3β）， c-Myc， survivin and Cyclin D1， β-catenin nuclear import was explored by immunofluorescence assay. ResultCompared with the control group， Shenbai Jiedu prescription inhibited the proliferation of HCT116 cells in a dose-dependent manner （P<0.01）. Compared with the control group， the mRNA expression levels of PTEN and GSK-3β were up-regulated whereas those of PI3K， Akt， c-Myc， survivin and CyclinD1 were down-regulated after treatment with Shenbai Jiedu prescription （P<0.01）. The protein expression levels of PTEN， p-PTEN and GSK-3β were up-regulated whereas those of PI3K， Akt， p-Akt， GSK-3β， p-GSK-3β， c-Myc， survivin and CyclinD1 were down-regulated （P<0.05， P<0.01）. Immunofluorescence assay showed that Shenbai Jiedu prescription suppressed β-catenin nuclear import in HCT116 cells. ConclusionShenbai Jiedu prescription inhibited the proliferation of HCT116 cells via the mechanism of regulating the PTEN/PI3K/Akt signaling pathway.

Assessment and prediction of the oversea imported risk of COVID-19 in Shanghai / 上海预防医学

Objective To determine the association between global epidemic of COVID-19 and local situation of imported cases from abroad to Shanghai, and then to predict the risk of imported COVID-19 epidemic from December 2020 through March 2021. Methods A retrospective analysis on the imported COVID-19 cases from abroad to Shanghai was conducted. The correlation between global and country-specific confirmed COVID-19 cases(weekly confirmed cases per 100 000 population)and imported cases(weekly reported)in Shanghai was determined. Compared to the risk in November 2020, country-specific risk of imported cases to Shanghai was assessed to calculate the possible number of imported case in the near future using SEIR model. Results The number of imported case of COVID-19 from abroad to Shanghai increased along with the global epidemic, with several peaks accordingly. However, the imported cases did not accumulate, as potential epidemic has been always effectively contained through timely implementation of prevention and control measures. The number of weekly imported cases in Shanghai was significantly correlated with the number of global weekly confirmed cases per 100 000 population(rSpearman = 0.349, P = 0.029), and also correlated with weekly reported cases in certain countries(P < 0.05), such as the UK and France. Using the number of imported cases from abroad to Shanghai in November as baseline, the estimated monthly number of imported cases in Shanghai might increase in the following four months. Conclusion The risk of imported COVID-19 cases from abroad to Shanghai may increase in the near future. Prediction of imported case would provide scientific evidence for optimizing prevention and control measures and reserving medical resources for the imported epidemic.

Evaluating the importation of yellow fever cases into China in 2016 and strategies used to prevent and control the spread of the disease

Abstract@#During the yellow fever epidemic in Angola in 2016, cases of yellow fever were reported in China for the first time. The 11 cases, all Chinese nationals returning from Angola, were identified in March and April 2016, one to two weeks after the peak of the Angolan epidemic. One patient died; the other 10 cases recovered after treatment. This paper reviews the epidemiological characteristics of the 11 yellow fever cases imported into China. It examines case detection and disease control and surveillance, and presents recommendations for further action to prevent additional importation of yellow fever into China.

The impact of agriculture trade and exchange rate on economic growth of Pakistan: an NARDL and asymmetric analysis approach / O impacto do comércio agrícola e da taxa decâmbio no crescimento econômico do Paquistão: uma abordagem de análise NARDL e assimétrica

ABSTRACT: This study contributes to the extant literature on the nexus among agriculture export, import exchange rate and economic growth in Pakistan. We used annual time series data for 1980-2017 and employ the Non-linear Autoregressive Distributed Lag (NARDL) model. The NARDL testing results affirms asymmetric co-integration among the variables. The study main results show: (i) Co-integration test for long run the positive shocks in export and import have positive significant while exchange rate has positive effect the economic growth. (ii) Co-integration test for short run the positive shocks in import has positive significant and while Export and exchange rate have negative significant effect on economic growth. The symmetrical results show: (i) Export has unidirectional granger causality (ii) Exchange rate has bidirectional granger causality (iii) Import has not ganger causality with economic growth. In addition, the results demonstrated that causality relationship can help out policy maker to design such policies which are useful to economic growth of Pakistan, which could further promote foreign trade to gain the maximum level of economic growth.

RESUMO: Este estudo contribui para a literatura existente sobre o nexo entre exportação agrícola, taxa de câmbio de importação e crescimento econômico no Paquistão. Utilizamos dados de séries temporais anuais para 1980-2017 e empregamos o modelo Não-linear Autoregressive Distributed Lag (NARDL). Os resultados dos testes NARDL afirmam a co-integração assimétrica entre as variáveis. Os principais resultados do estudo mostram: (i) no teste de co-integração de longo prazo, os choques positivos nas exportações e importações têm uma significância positiva, enquanto a taxa de câmbio afeta positivamente o crescimento econômico; (ii) Teste de co-integração para curto prazo, os choques positivos nas importações são positivos significativos e, enquanto a exportação e a taxa de câmbio têm um efeito negativo significativo no crescimento econômico. Os resultados simétricos mostram: (i) a exportação tem causalidade unidirecional sobre o crescimento ; (ii) a taxa de câmbio tem causalidade bidirecional sobre o crescimento ; (iii) a importação não tem causalidade sobre o crescimento econômico. Além disso, os resultados demonstraram que a relação de causalidade pode ajudar o formulador de políticas a elaborar políticas úteis ao crescimento econômico do Paquistão, o que poderia promover ainda mais o comércio exterior para obter o nível máximo de crescimento econômico.

Environmental Risk Assessment of Glufosinate-Tolerant Genetically Modified Oilseed Rape MS8, RF3 and MS8 x RF3 for Import, Processing and Feed Uses under Directive 2001/18/EC (Notification C/BE/96/01)

In preparation for a legal implementation of EU-regulation 1829/2003, the Norwegian Scientific Committee for Food Safety (VKM) has been requested by the Norwegian Directorate for Nature Management to conduct final environmental risk assessments for all genetically modified organisms (GMOs) and products containing or consisting of GMOs that are authorized in the European Union under Directive 2001/18/EC or Regulation 1829/2003/EC. The request covers scope(s) relevant to the Gene Technology Act. The request does not cover GMOs that VKM already has conducted its final risk assessments on. However, the Directorate requests VKM to consider whether updates or other changes to earlier submitted assessments are necessary. The genetically modified, glufosinate-tolerant oilseed rape lines MS8, RF3 and MS8 x RF3 (Notification C/BE/96/01) are approved under Directive 2001/18/EC for import and processing for feed and industrial purposes since 26 March 2007 (Commission Decision 2007/232/EC). In addition, processed oil from genetically modified oilseed rape derived from MS8, RF3 and MS8 x RF3 were notified as existing food according to Art. 5 of Regulation (EC) No 258/97 on novel foods and novel food ingredients in November 1999. Existing feed and feed products containing, consisting of or produced from MS8, RF3 and MS8 x RF3 were notified according to Articles 8 and 20 of Regulation (EC) No 1829/2003 and were placed on the market in January 2000. An application for renewal of the authorisation for continued marketing of existing food, food ingredients and feed materials produced from MS8, RF3 and MS8 x RF3 was submitted within the framework of Regulation (EC) No 1829/2003 in June 2007 (EFSA/GMO/RX/MS8/RF3). In addition, an application covering food containing or consisting of, and food produced from or containing ingredients produced from oilseed rape MS8, RF3 and MS8 x RF3 (with the exception of processed oil) was delivered by Bayer CropScience in June 2010 (EFSA/GMO/BE/2010/81). The VKM GMO Panel has previously issued a scientific opinion related to the notification C/BE/96/01 for the placing on the market of the oilseed rape lines for import, processing and feed uses (VKM 2008). The health and environmental risk assessment was commissioned by the Norwegian Directorate for Nature Management in connection with the national finalisation of the procedure of the notification C/BE/96/01 in 2008. Due to the publication of updated guidelines for environmental risk assessments of genetically modified plants and new scientific literature, the VKM GMO Panel has decided to deliver an updated environmental risk assessment of oilseed rape MS8, RF3 and MS8 x RF3. A scientific opinion on an application for the placing on the market of MS8/RF3 for food containing or consisting of, and food produced from or containing ingredients produced from MS8/RF3 (with the exception of processed oil) (EFSA/GMO/BE/2010/81) have also been submitted by the VKM GMO Panel (VKM 2012). The environmental risk assessment of the oilseed rape MS8, RF3 and MS8 x RF3 is based on information provided by the notifier in the applications EFSA/GMO/RX/MS8/RF3, EFSA/GMO/BE/2010/8, the notification C/BE/96/01, and scientific comments from EFSA and other member states made available on the EFSA website GMO Extranet. The risk assessment also considered other peer-reviewed scientific literature as relevant. The VKM GMO Panel has evaluated MS8, RF3 and MS8 x RF3 with reference to its intended uses in the European Economic Area (EEA), and according to the principles described in the Norwegian Gene Technology Act and regulations relating to impact assessment pursuant to the Gene Technology Act, Directive 2001/18/EC on the deliberate release into the environment of genetically modified organisms, and Regulation (EC) No 1829/2003 on genetically modified food and feed. The Norwegian Scientific Committee for Food Safety has also decided to take account of the appropriate principles described in the EFSA guidelines for the risk assessment of GM plants and derived food and feed (EFSA 2006, 2011a), the environmental risk assessment of GM plants (EFSA 2010), the selection of comparators for the risk assessment of GM plants (EFSA 2011b), and for the post-market environmental monitoring of GM plants (EFSA 2006, 2011c). The scientific risk assessment of oilseed rape MS8, RF3 and MS8 x RF3 include molecular characterisation of the inserted DNA and expression of target proteins, comparative assessment of agronomic and phenotypic characteristics, unintended effects on plant fitness, potential for horizontal and vertical gene transfer, and evaluations of the post-market environmental plan. In line with its mandate, VKM emphasised that assessments of sustainable development, societal utility and ethical considerations, according to the Norwegian Gene Technology Act and Regulations relating to impact assessment pursuant to the Gene Technology Act, shall not be carried out by the Panel on Genetically Modified Organisms. The genetically modified oilseed rape lines MS8 and RF3 were developed to provide a pollination control system for production of F1-hybrid seeds (MS8 x RF3). Oilseed rape is a crop capable of undergoing both self-pollination (70%) as well as cross-pollination (30%). Therefore a system to ensure only cross-pollination is required for producing hybrids from two distinct parents. As a result of hybrid vigor cross-pollinated plants produce higher yield as compared to self-pollinating rape. The hybrid system is achieved using a pollination control system by insertion and expression of barnase and barstar genes derived from the soil bacterium Bacillus amyloliquefaciens into two separate transgenic oilseed rape lines. The barnase gene in the male sterile line MS8 encode a ribonuclease peptide (RNase), expressed in the tapetum cells during anther development. The RNase effect RNA levels, disrupting normal cell function, arresting early anther development, and results in the lack of viable pollen and male sterility. The fertility restoration line RF3 contains a barstar gene, coding for a ribonuclease inhibitor (Barstar peptide) expressed only in the tapetum cells of the pollen during anther development. The peptide specifically inhibits the Barnase RNase expressed by the MS8 line. The RNase and the ribonuclease inhibitor form a stable one-to-one complex, in which the RNase is inactivated. As a result, when pollen from the receptor line RF3 is crossed to the male sterile line MS8, the MS8 x RF3 progeny expresses the RNase inhibitor in the tapetum cells of the anthers allowing hybrid plants to develop normal anthers and restore fertility. The barnase and barstar genes in MS8 and RF3 are each linked with the bar gene from Streptomyces hygroscopus. The bar gene is driven by a plant promoter that is active in all green tissues of the plant, and encodes the enzyme phosphinothricin acetyltransferase (PAT). The PAT enzyme inactivates phosphinothricin (PPT), the active constituent of the non-selective herbicide glufosinate-ammonium. The bar gen were transferred to the oilseed rape plants as markers both for use during in vitro selection and as a breeding selection tool in seed production. Molecular characterization: The oilseed rape hybrid MS8xRF3 is produced by conventional crossing. The parental lines MS8 and RF3 are well described in the documentation provided by the applicant, and a number of publications support their data. It seems likely that MS8 contains a complete copy of the desired T-DNA construct including the bar and barnase genes. Likewise, the event RF3 is likely to contain complete copies of the bar and barstar genes in addition to a second incomplete non-functional copy of the bar-gene. The inserts in the single events are preserved in the hybrid MS8xRF3, and the desired traits are stably inherited over generations. Oilseed rape MS8, RF3 and MS8xRF3 and the physical, chemical and functional characteristics of the newly expressed proteins have previously been evaluated by the VKM Panel on Genetically Modified Organisms, and considered satisfactory (VKM 2008, 2012). The GMO Panel finds the characterisation of the physical, chemical and functional properties of the recombinant inserts in the oilseed rape transformation events MS8, RF3 and MS8xRF3 to be satisfactory. The GMO Panel has not identified any novel risks associated with the modified plants based on the molecular characterisation of the inserts. Comparative assessment: Based on results from comparative analyses of data from field trials located at representative sites and environments in Europe and Canada, it is concluded that oilseed rape MS8, RF3 and MS8 x RF3 is agronomically and phenotypically equivalent to the conventional counterpart, except for the newly expressed barnase, barstar and PAT proteins. The field evaluations support a conclusion of no phenotypic changes indicative of increased plant weed/pest potential of event MS8, RF3 and MS8 x RF3 compared to conventional oilseed rape. Furthermore, the results demonstrate that in-crop applications of glufosinate herbicide do not alter the phenotypic and agronomic characteristics of event MS8, RF3 and MS8 x RF3 compared to conventional oilseed rape varieties. Environmental risk: Considering the scope of the notification C/BE/96/01, excluding cultivation purposes, the environmental risk assessment is limited to exposure through accidental spillage of viable seeds of MS8, RF3 and MS8 x RF3 into the environment during transportation, storage, handling, processing and use of derived products. Oilseed rape is mainly a self-pollinating species, but has entomophilous flowers capable of both self- and cross-pollinating. Normally the level of outcrossing is about 30%, but outcrossing frequencies up to 55% are reported. Several plant species related to oilseed rape that are either cultivated, occurs as weeds of cultivated and disturbed lands, or grow outside cultivation areas t

Environmental Risk Assessment of Glufosinate-Tolerant Genetically Modified Oilseed Rape T45 for Food and Feed Uses, Import and Processing under Regulation (EC) No 1829/2003 (Application EFSA/GMO/UK/2005/25)

In preparation for a legal implementation of EU-regulation 1829/2003, the Norwegian Scientific Committee for Food Safety (VKM) has been requested by the Norwegian Directorate for Nature Management to conduct final environmental risk assessments for all genetically modified organisms (GMOs) and products containing or consisting of GMOs that are authorized in the European Union under Directive 2001/18/EC or Regulation 1829/2003/EC. The assignment includes a scientific environmental risk assessment of oilseed rape T45 (Reference EFSA/GMO/UK/2005/25) from Bayer CropScience for food and feed uses, import and processing. Oilseed rape T45 has previously been risk assessed by the VKM Panel on Genetically Modified Organisms (GMO), commissioned by the Norwegian Food Safety Authority related to the EFSAs public hearing in 2007 (VKM 2007a). Food additives produced from T45 oilseed rape were notified in the EU as existing food additives within the meaning of Article 8 (1)(b) of Regulation 1829/2003, authorized under Directive 89/10/EEC (Community Register 2005). Feed materials produced from T45 were also notified as existing feed products containing, consisting of or produced from T45 according to Articles 8 and 20 of Regulation (EC) No 1829/2003 in 2003. A notification for placing on the market of T45 according to the Directive 2001/18/EC was submitted in March 2004 (C/GB/04/M5/4), covering import and processing of T45 into food and feed. The application was further transferred into Regulation (EC) No 1829/2003 in November 2005 (EFSA/GMO/UK/2005/25). An application for renewal of authorisation for continued marketing of food additives and feed materials produced from T45 oilseed rape was submitted under Regulation (EC) No 1829/2003 in 2007 (EFSA/GMO/RX/T45). The EFSA GMO Panel performed one single comprehensive risk assessment for all intended uses of genetically modified oilseed rape T45, and issued a comprehensive scientific opinion for both applications submitted under Regulation (EC) No 1829/2003. The scientific opinion was published in January 30 2008 (EFSA 2008), and food and feed products containing or produced from oilseed rape T45 was approved by Commission Decision 26 March 2009 (Commission Decision 2009/184/EC). The oilseed rape T45 is however currently being phased out (EU-COM 2009). The commercialisation of T45 oilseed rape seeds in third countries was stopped after the 2005 planting season and stocks of all oilseed rape T45 lines have been recalled from distribution and destroyed. The applicant commits not to commercialize the event in the future and the import will therefore be restricted to adventitious levels in oilseed rape commodity. Thus the incidence of oilseed rape T45 in the EU is expected to be limited. The environmental risk assessment of the oilseed rape T45 is based on information provided by the notifier in the application EFSA/GMO/UK/2005/25 and EFSA/GMO/RX/T45, and scientific comments from EFSA and other member states made available on the EFSA website GMO Extranet. The risk assessment also considered other peer-reviewed scientific literature as relevant. The VKM GMO Panel has evaluated T45 with reference to its intended uses in the European Economic Area (EEA), and according to the principles described in the Norwegian Food Act, the Norwegian Gene Technology Act and regulations relating to impact assessment pursuant to the Gene Technology Act, Directive 2001/18/EC on the deliberate release into the environment of genetically modified organisms, and Regulation (EC) No 1829/2003 on genetically modified food and feed. The Norwegian Scientific Committee for Food Safety has also decided to take account of the appropriate principles described in the EFSA guidelines for the risk assessment of GM plants and derived food and feed (EFSA 2006, 2011a), the environmental risk assessment of GM plants (EFSA 2010), the selection of comparators for the risk assessment of GM plants (EFSA 2011b), and for the post-market environmental monitoring of GM plants (EFSA 2006, 2011c). The scientific risk assessment of oilseed rape T45 include molecular characterisation of the inserted DNA and expression of target proteins, comparative assessment of agronomic and phenotypic characteristics, unintended effects on plant fitness, potential for horizontal and vertical gene transfer, and evaluations of the post-market environmental plan. In line with its mandate, VKM emphasised that assessments of sustainable development, societal utility and ethical considerations, according to the Norwegian Gene Technology Act and Regulations relating to impact assessment pursuant to the Gene Technology Act, shall not be carried out by the Panel on Genetically Modified Organisms. The glufosinate ammonium-tolerant oilseed rape transformation event T45 (Unique Identfier ACSBNØØ8-2) was developed by Agrobacterium-mediated transformation of protoplast from the conventional oilseed rape cultivar “AC Excel”. T45 contains a synthetic version of the native pat gene isolated from the bacteria Streptomyces viridochromogenes, strain Tü 494. The inserted gene encodes the enzyme phosphinothricin acetyltransferase (PAT), which confers tolerance to the herbical active substance glufosinate ammonium. The PAT enzyme detoxifies glufosinate-ammonium by acetylation of the L-isomer into N-acetyl-L-glufosinate ammonium (NAG) which does not inhibit glutamine synthetase and therefore confers tolerance to the herbicide. Glufosinate ammonium-tolerant oilseed rape transformation event T45 has been conventionally bred into an array of spring-type oilseed rape varieties. Molecular characterization: The molecular characterisation data established that only one copy of the gene cassette is integrated in the oilseed rape genomic DNA. Appropriate analysis of the integration site including sequence determination of the inserted DNA and flanking regions and bioinformatics analysis have been performed. Bioinformatics analyses of junction regions demonstrated the absence of any potential new ORFs coding for known toxins or allergens. The genetic stability of transformation event T45 was demonstrated at the genomic level over multiple generations by Southern analysis. Segregation analysis shows that event T45 is inherited as dominant, single locus trait. Phenotypic stability has been confirmed by stable tolerance to the herbicide for T45 lines and varieties derived from the event grown in Canada since 1993. Oilseed rape transformation event T45 and the physical, chemical and functional characteristics of the proteins have previously been evaluated by The VKM Panel on Genetically Modified Organisms, and considered satisfactory (VKM 2007a). Comparative assessment: Based on results from comparative analyses of data from field trials located at representative sites and environments in Canada in 1995-1997, it is concluded that oilseed rape T45 is agronomically and phenotypically equivalent to the conventional counterpart and commercial available reference varieties, with the exception of maturity and the herbicide tolerance conferred by the PAT protein. The field evaluations support a conclusion of no phenotypic changes indicative of increased plant weed/pest potential of event T45 compared to conventional oilseed rape. Furthermore, the results demonstrate that in-crop applications of glufosinate herbicide do not alter the phenotypic and agronomic characteristics of event T45 compared to conventional oilseed rape. Environmental risk: According to the applicant, the event T45 has been phased out, and stocks of all oilseed rape T45 lines have been recalled from distribution and destroyed since 2005. However, since future cultivation and import of oilseed rape T45 into the EU/EEA area cannot be entirely ruled out, the environmental risk assessment consider exposure of viable seeds of T45 through accidental spillage into the environment during transportation, storage, handling, processing and use of derived products. Oilseed rape is mainly a self-pollinating species, but has entomophilous flowers capable of both self- and cross-pollinating. Normally the level of outcrossing is about 30%, but outcrossing frequencies up to 55% are reported. Several plant species related to oilseed rape that are either cultivated, occurs as weeds of cultivated and disturbed lands, or grow outside cultivation areas to which gene introgression from oilseed rape could be of concern. These are found both in the Brassica species complex and in related genera. A series of controlled crosses between oilseed rape and related taxa have been reported in the scientific literature. Because of a mismatch in the chromosome numbers most hybrids have a severely reduced fertility. Exceptions are hybrids obtained from crosses between oilseed rape and wild turnip (B. rapa ssp. campestris) and to a lesser extent, mustard greens (B. juncea), where spontaneously hybridising and transgene introgression under field conditions have been confirmed. Wild turnip is native to Norway and a common weed in arable lowlands. There is no evidence that the herbicide tolerant trait results in enhanced fitness, persistence or invasiveness of oilseed rape T45, or hybridizing wild relatives, compared to conventional oilseed rape varieties, unless the plants are exposed to herbicides with the active substance glufosinate ammonium. Glufosinate ammonium-containing herbicides have been withdrawn from the Norwegian market since 2008, and the substance will be phased out in the EU in 2017 for reasons of reproductive toxicity. Accidental spillage and loss of viable seeds of T45 during transport, storage, handling in the environment and processing into derived products is, however, likely to take place over time, and the establishment of small populations of oilseed rape T45 cannot be excluded. Feral oilseed rape T45 arising from spilled seed could theoretically pollinate conventional crop plants if the escaped populations are immediately adja

Research on trend of international trade in “Belt and Road” of Chinese materia medica resources based on import and encouraging international perspective / 中草药

“The Belt and Road” initiative has put forward new requirements for the development of international trade in Chinese medicine resources. In the new era, the development of traditional Chinese medicine resources needs to build a new pattern of all-round opening up. Based on the theory of national competitive advantage in international trade and the theory of regional spatial economy, this paper provides a theoretical basis for upgrading the natural import pattern of traditional Chinese medicinal herbs to the new mode of resource economy in the international layout of Chinese medicine resources. The market development of medicinal materials resources also promotes the transformation and upgrades of the domestic traditional Chinese medicine resources industry. Therefore, it is proposed that the international trade of Chinese medicine resources in the new era is an upgraded version of “import trade”. It is a measure for the cultivation and development of the international market of Chinese herbal resources and economy. It is also a strategy to promote domestic scientific and efficient utilization, and provide a theoretical and method basis for formulating the policy of international distribution and optimization of the utilization of new Chinese medicine resources.

Analysis of characteristics and problems of international trade of wolfberry in China / 中国中药杂志

Wolfberry has important unique medical values as well as edible and commerce values. In this paper,we analyze the characteristics and problems of international trade of wolfberry based on the customs data between 2008 and 2017. During periods of these ten years,the wolfberry was mainly exported with a small proportions of imports. The total export volume increased steadily,reached 82 182. 08 tons and 696. 622 million dollars respectively. Wolfberry came from 31 provinces/autonomous regions and exported to 105 countries and regions through 21 ports. Most of the total exports of wolfberry flew to markets of Asia and Europe,the Ningxia autonomous region was the major export province. Large amount of wolfberry exported through Tianjin port. Compared with the export volume,the import is almost negligible,mainly coming from North Korea,almost all through Changchun port,Jilin province to enter the domestic market. There is a situation of"import of domestic goods". To enhance the international competitiveness of wolf berry industry,we must rely on the fundamental research of wolfberry,speed up the standardization process,strengthen the scientific and technological innovation in wolfberry products,improve the added value and profit of wolfberry.

A review of trade practices of smokeless tobacco products in terms of prohibition on sale, manufacturing & importation in Framework Convention on Tobacco Control ratified Parties

Background & objectives: Over the past decade, the World Health Organization (WHO) Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (FCTC) has served as a powerful tool to initiate and advance global tobacco control efforts. However, the control strategies have mainly targeted demand-side measures. The goal of a tobacco-free world by 2040 cannot be achieved if the supply-side measures are not addressed. This analysis was undertaken to examine the tobacco control legislations of various Parties ratifying WHO FCTC with an objective to ascertain the status of prohibition of importation, sale and manufacturing of smokeless tobacco products. Methods: All 180 Parties to WHO FCTC were included for the study. A comprehensive database of all the parties to FCTC was created and tobacco control legislations and regulations of all parties were studied in detail. Results: Overall, the sale of smokeless tobacco (SLT) products was prohibited in 45 Parties. Eleven Parties prohibited manufacturing of SLT products and six Parties imposed a ban on importation of SLT products. Australia, Bhutan, Singapore and Sri Lanka banned all three. Interpretation & conclusions: Comprehensive tobacco control strategy with effective tobacco cessation programme should complement strong legal actions such as prohibition on trade in SLT products to meet the public health objective of such laws and regulations. In addition, multisectoral efforts are needed for effective implementation of such restrictions imposed by the governments.

Final Health and Environmental Risk Assessment of Genetically Modified LLcotton25

Genetically modified LLcotton25 from Bayer Crop Science expresses the bar gene from Streptomyces hygroscopicus ATCC21705 encoding the phosphinothricin-acetyl–transferase (PAT) enzyme, which confers tolerance to the active herbicide glufosinate-ammonium. Updated bioinformatics analyses of the inserted DNA and flanking sequences in LLCotton25 have not indicated potential production of putatively harmful toxins or allergens caused by the genetic modification. Genomic stability of the functional insert and consistent expression of the bar gene have been shown over several generations of LLCotton25. Data from field trials indicate that with the exception of the newly introduced trait, LLCotton25 is compositionally, phenotypically and agronomically equivalent to its conventional counterpart Coker 312 and other cotton cultivars. A 33-day nutritional assessment trial with broilers has not revealed adverse effects of cottonseed meal from LLCotton25. Toxicity testing of the PAT protein in a repeated-dose dietary exposure test with rats did not indicate adverse effects. The PAT protein produced in LLCotton25 does not show amino acid sequence resemblance to known toxins or IgEdependent allergens, nor has it been reported to cause IgE-mediated allergic reactions. It is therefore unlikely that the PAT protein will cause toxic or IgE-mediated allergic reactions to food or feed containing LLCotton25 compared to conventional cotton cultivars. Cotton is not cultivated in Norway, and there are no cross-compatible wild or weedy relatives of cotton in Europe. Based on current knowledge and with the exception of the introduced traits, the VKM GMO Panel concludes that LLCotton25 is nutritionally, compositionally, phenotypically and agronomically equivalent to and as safe as its conventional counterpart and other cotton cultivars. Considering the intended uses, which exclude cultivation, the VKM GMO Panel concludes that LLCotton25 does not represent an environmental risk in Norway.

Final Health and Environmental Risk Assessment of Genetically Modified Cotton GHB614

Genetically modified cotton GHB614 from Bayer Crop Science expresses a modified epsps gene (2mepsps) gene from maize encoding the enzyme 5-enolpyruvylshikimate 3-phosphate synthase (2 mEPSPS), which confers tolerance to the herbicide glyphosate. Updated bioinformatics analyses of the inserted DNA and flanking sequences in GHB614 have not indicated potential production of putatively harmful toxins or allergens caused by the genetic modification. Genomic stability of the functional insert and consistent expression of the 2mepsps gene has been shown over several generations of cotton GHB614. Field trials indicate that with the exception of the introduced trait, cotton GHB614 is compositionally, phenotypically and agronomically equivalent to its conventional counterpart Coker 312 and other cotton cultivars. A 42-day nutritional assessment trial with broilers did not reveal adverse effects of cottonseed meal from GHB614. The 2mEPSPS protein produced in GHB614 does not show amino acid sequence resemblance to known toxins or IgE-dependent allergens, nor has it been reported to cause IgE-mediated allergic reactions. It is therefore unlikely that the 2 mEPSPS protein will cause toxic or IgE-mediated allergic reactions to food or feed containing cotton GHB614 compared to conventional cotton cultivars. Cotton is not cultivated in Norway, and there are no cross-compatible wild or weedy relatives of cotton in Europe. Based on current knowledge and with the exception of the introduced trait, the VKM GMO Panel concludes that cotton GHB614 is nutritionally, compositionally, phenotypically and agronomically equivalent to and as safe as its conventional counterpart and other cotton cultivars. Considering the intended uses, which exclude cultivation, the VKM GMO Panel concludes that GHB614 does not represent an environmental risk in Norway.

Analysis of characteristics and problems of international trade of Poria cocos in China / 中国中药杂志

Poria cocos is one of medical materials frequently used in China and well marketed at home and abroad. Based on the analysis of exports and imports data of P. cocos, we found that large proportions of P. cocos were exported, while only a small proportions of those were imported in China between 2011 and 2016. During periods of these six years, the annual exporting trade of P. cocos in quantity significantly decreased, but that in dollars tend to increase slightly and the unit-prices of P. cocos significantly increased. Statistically, the average annual export trade of P. cocos from 2011 to 2016 in quantity and dollars were 9 279.73 tons and 35.454 million dollars, respectively. And the average annual export in unit-price was 4.14 dollars per kilogram. In total, P. cocos came from 29 provinces and exported to 44 countries through 21 ports. More than 98% of total exports of P. cocos were flew to the markets of countries in Asia, of which Hong Kong was the major partner in import trade of P. cocos. Large amount of P. cocos came from Guangdong province and exported mainly through Shenzhen port. Except the exports, China also imports P. cocos from other countries, among which Korea was the major country exports largest amount of P. cocos to China. And most of P. cocos were imported by Jilin province and mainly through Changchun port. To improve the export kinetic, quality and profits of P. cocos, and thus enhance the international competitiveness of the industry of P. cocos, Chinese governments should emphasize the researches on the products of P. cocos, broaden the demand space of the high-end customers, stimulate the high-end market grow in high speed and accelerate the process of standardization in future.

Comparative Analysis of In-use Period after First Opening or Reconstitution of European Union Imported Sterile Products and Domestic Sterile Products in Our Hospital / 中国药师

Objective: To provide reference and suggestions for improving the in-use period information of sterile products after first opening or reconstitution in China. Methods: The package inserts of sterile products in our hospital were investigated. The sterile products needed to be reconstituted before use and with multiple-dose package were selected. The in-use period information of European imported sterile products and domestic sterile products were comparatively analyzed. Results: The presentation rate of in-use period in the package inserts of domestic sterile products was 32. 25% , which was less than 55. 56% of the other imported sterile products, and significantly less than 93. 55% of European imported sterile products. Conclusion: The relevant content of in-use period of sterile products after first opening or reconstitution is supplemented relatively late in China's stability testing guidance for drug substances and products, moreover, the specific technical proposals are absent. It is suggested that the drug administrative department and its techni-cal supportive agencies should improve the relevant guidance and guide pharmaceutical research enterprises and manufacturing enterpri-ses to carry out in-use stability studies, furthermore, gradually improve the relevant in-use period information in package inserts.

Outro olhar sobre a vigilância sanitária de produtos no Brasil: a legislação de controle sanitário das importações em foco / Another look at sanitary surveillance of products in Brazil: the sanitary control legislation of imports in focus

Resumo Este artigo tem como objeto a regulamentação adotada pelo Brasil no que tange ao controle sanitário da importação de produtos sob vigilância sanitária. O estudo incorporou os aspectos políticos, técnicos, econômicos e institucionais envolvidos no controle das importações. Destaca-se, ainda, a identificação de atores que se mostraram relevantes na formulação e na implantação das normas. Nesta perspectiva, foi realizado estudo singular do conjunto das normatizações publicadas entre 1996 e 2013 editadas desde a antiga Secretaria de Vigilância Sanitária até a Anvisa. Como resultado, foram selecionadas cinco normas para análise, bem como suas alterações posteriores, caracterizando um estudo qualitativo de caráter exploratório, executado com base na análise temática de conteúdo. O exame desse material permitiu traçar uma trajetória do controle sanitário das importações, possibilitando destacar as condicionantes para as alterações dos regulamentos e os efeitos produzidos por estas. Observou-se que tanto a elaboração quanto os posteriores desdobramentos das normatizações foram influenciados pelas mudanças políticas e econômicas observadas no país e no mundo, sofrendo a determinação de organismos internacionais e de atores intra e extra-institucionais, que conduziram a restrições no controle de produtos importados. O estudo permitiu conhecer melhor a prática da vigilância sanitária, no âmbito da importação.

Abstract This article focuses on the regulation adopted by Brazil in relation to health inspection of imports of goods under sanitary surveillance. The study incorporated the political, technical, economic and institutional aspects involved in the sanitary control of imports. Noteworthy is also the identification of actors relevant in the formulation and implementation of standards. In this perspective, we performed singular study of all norms published between 1996 and 2013 edited from the former Health Surveillance Secretariat to the National Sanitary Surveillance Agency (Anvisa). As a result, five standards were selected for analysis as well as its subsequent amendments, featuring a qualitative exploratory study based on thematic content analysis. The examination of this material allowed to draw a trajectory of sanitary control of imports, which unfolded from the analysis of standards, allowing highlight the conditions for changes in regulations and the effects of such changes. It was observed that both the elaboration and later developments of norms were influenced by political and economic changes observed in the country and the world, suffering the determination of international organizations and intra and extra-institutional actors, which led to restrictions in the health control products imported. The study allowed a better understanding of the practice of sanitary surveillance in the import scope.

Epidemiological analysis and countermeasures discussion on imported ma-laria in Zhangjiagang City / 中国血吸虫病防治杂志

Objective To analyze the epidemiological characteristics of imported malaria in Zhangjiagang City. Methods The epidemiological data were collected and retrospectively analyzed for the distribution,cost,and exit-entry mode and port of imported malaria cases in Zhangjiagang City from 2005 to 2015. Results There were 25 imported malaria cases in Zhangjia-gang City from 2005 to 2015,and among them,there were 16 cases of falciparum malaria(64％),6 cases of vivax malaria (24％),and 3 cases of ovale malaria(12％);there was 1 cases of critically ill(4％),there were 8 cases of serious ill(32％) and 16 cases of mild ill(64％). The time of onset was in accordance with the circular distribution. The peak of the incidence of the imported malaria was one month earlier than that of the domestic infection. The seasonal peak was gentle ,and there was also the occurrence in the non-epidemic season in the city. The imported malaria patients were mainly from Africa ,followed by South-east Asia and Oceania. Conclusion The information technology should be applied to improve the key population coverage on the basis of improving the ability of malaria diagnosis and treatment of medical staff and the multi-sector 's cooperation for the im-ported malaria prevention and control in Zhangjiagang City.